As the 2021-22 NHL season arrives, so does the pressure of expectations. Every player, coach and general manager feels the heat to some degree. But some feel its intensity like a neglected hamburger under a fast food restaurant lamp, sizzling and spoiling and preparing to be tossed away.
Here are my "hot seat" rankings for the upcoming NHL season, for individuals who could face serious consequences for their careers if things don't go as planned. We've ranked five players, coaches and general managers here, with the acknowledgement that there are many more who would have qualified.
Keep in mind that these "hot seats" are ranked based on conversations around the NHL but are also the byproduct of perception.